Like a good detective, let's examine this book.

🔥 Overview

The Book of Ezra could be seen as a sequel to Chronicles. It was likely written by the same author and picked up after the end of the 70 years of captivity. Ezra comes to Israel to reestablish the worship of Yahweh and prepare the nation to center their lives around God's Word. Many of the refugees returning to the land possibly have little to no training in the ways of God. No matter how much or how little exposure to God they have, Ezra is determined to lead the nation to worship and honor the Lord.

🔍 Things to Notice

The rebuilding of the Temple is seen as beautiful to those who did not see Solomon's Temple. To those who did, it is a time of mourning.
This book goes hand-in-hand with the book of Nehemiah. Ezra started the Temple. Nehemiah built the walls.

🙏 Jesus in this Book

(Every book reveals the glory of God, displayed in Christ Jesus)

Jesus is typified in Ezra as a man of the Word and Prayer.

👀 Themes

Rebuild.
Restart.
Dedication to God.
Focusing our attention on God and not just the urgent issues in front of us.

😀 Who?

Who wrote it? Ezra.

Who is the original audience? The nation of Israel.

🪧 Where?

Where are we? The journey to and in the nation of Israel.

⏳ When?

When was it written: 460-400 BC.

🤔 What?

What is the big idea? Ezra comes to the land of Israel as a scribe and priest. His job is to help the nation of Israel focus on the main thing: The Worship of God.

🧐 Why?

Why is this book important?
From Chuck Swindoll, "God moved the hearts of secular rulers (Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes) to allow, even encourage and help, the Jewish people to return home. He used these unlikely allies to fulfill His promises of restoration for His chosen people. Have you encountered unlikely sources of blessing? Have you wondered how God can really work all things together for the good of those who are called by His name (Romans 8:28)? Take time today to acknowledge God’s sovereignty and mercy in your life. Recommit to Him your trust, your love, and your obedience."

📝 How?

How can I apply it? There will always be obstacles to overcome in life. There is always another mountain to climb and another battle to fight. If we are not careful, we will constantly push God to the back of our list. However, only with God can we do all the things we need to do. Ezra reminds the nation of Israel and us that serving God is not what we do when we have time. It's the primary focus of our lives. He is the one who helps us do all other things.